Weber Returns for a Second Season
Published on April 17, 2012 under American Association (AA)
Winnipeg Goldeyes News Release
WINNIPEG - Winnipeg Goldeyes manager Rick Forney announced today the signing of veteran outfielder Jon Weber.
Weber, 34, played in 69 games with the Goldeyes last season, hitting a team-leading .326 with 10 home runs and 65 RBI after being signed in June. He was also tied with Luis Alen for the team lead in doubles with 30.
"He single-handedly changed our season last year," Forney said. "He's about as productive as you can be for a veteran player in our league."
Weber was also a key contributor in the Goldeyes' five-game American Association Division Series with the St. Paul Saints, as he hit .455 with three RBI.
"What people see on the field, that's obvious," Forney said. "What they don't see about Jon Weber is that he's a great leader in the clubhouse. He's a veteran that cares deeply about winning every day. That's infectious and we are thrilled to have him back."
A veteran of 1,220 professional games, Weber has played 13 professional seasons, including parts of six seasons at Triple-A. He was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the 31st round (935th overall) of the 1997 MLB Amateur Draft. He's played for eight different Major League organizations.
Because the Goldeyes already had the maximum four veterans on their roster, Winnipeg has traded outfielder Cristian Guerrero to the Sioux Falls Pheasants in exchange for a player to be named later. Guerrero was signed as a free agent earlier this off-season after playing the last four seasons with the Gary SouthShore RailCats.
"For Jon to come back, we needed to make room," Forney said. "We're pleased we were able to find Cristian another job in Sioux Falls."
The Goldeyes now have 24 players signed for the 2012 season, including 10 pitchers and 14 position players.
Fans looking to purchase season tickets and nine-game mini packs for the 2012 season can call the Goldeyes office at 982-BASE (2273) or visit the Shaw Park box office.
American Association Stories from April 17, 2012
- Pheasants Land Big Fish in Guerrero - Sioux Falls Canaries
- Wingnuts Land Major League Bat - Wichita Wingnuts
- Weber Returns for a Second Season - Winnipeg Goldeyes
- More Bats, Arms Loaded Into Pheasants' Arsenal - Sioux Falls Canaries
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